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Endolysins and Their Potential in Combating Bacterial Multidrug Resistance

Olga I Guliy1, Olga A Karavaeva1

  • 1Institute of Biochemistry and Physiology of Plants and Microorganisms - Subdivision of the Federal State Budgetary Research Institution Saratov Federal Scientific Centre of the Russian Academy of Sciences (IBPPM RAS), 410049 Saratov, Russia.

Frontiers in Bioscience (Elite Edition)
|July 7, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Bacteriophage endolysins show promise as novel antibacterial agents to combat rising antibiotic resistance and bacterial infections, including biofilms. Their therapeutic potential is being explored alongside innovative strategies like artificial intelligence.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology and Infectious Diseases
  • Biotechnology and Drug Discovery

Background:

  • Antibiotic resistance is a growing global health crisis, with multidrug-resistant pathogens causing millions of deaths annually.
  • Traditional antibiotics face limitations due to widespread bacterial resistance, necessitating the exploration of novel therapeutic strategies.
  • Bacteriophage-derived enzymes, specifically endolysins, are emerging as potent alternatives to conventional antibiotics.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the achievements and mechanisms of bacteriophage endolysins against bacterial infections.
  • To discuss the therapeutic potential of endolysins in overcoming antibiotic resistance and combating biofilms.
  • To explore novel strategies, including combination therapies and artificial intelligence, for antimicrobial-resistant infections.

Main Methods:

  • Comprehensive literature review of bacteriophage endolysins and their antibacterial properties.
  • Analysis of endolysin mechanisms of action against various bacterial pathogens and biofilms.
  • Discussion of current research trends and future therapeutic applications.

Main Results:

  • Bacteriophage endolysins demonstrate potent lytic activity against a broad spectrum of bacteria, including multidrug-resistant strains.
  • Endolysins are effective against bacterial biofilms, a significant challenge in treating chronic infections.
  • Emerging research highlights the potential of combining endolysins with other molecules and leveraging AI for enhanced efficacy.

Conclusions:

  • Bacteriophage endolysins represent a promising class of nonclassical antibiotics with significant therapeutic potential against resistant bacteria.
  • Further research and clinical trials are warranted to fully realize the clinical application of endolysins.
  • Innovative approaches, including combination therapies and AI, are crucial for addressing the escalating threat of antimicrobial resistance.
Keywords:
bacteriophagesendolysinsinfectionmultidrug resistancetherapy

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